Deborah Ries

Deborah Jane Ries, age 74, of Warren, Ohio, passed away at her home on September 19, 2025, surrounded by love. 

Deborah was born on April 5, 1951 in Kane, PA to Paul R. Murdock and Betty J. McNeil Murdock. She spent her early childhood in Marienville, PA before moving to Franklin, PA. Deborah graduated from Franklin High School in 1969. She received her Bachelor’s degree from Kent State University in 1973, and a Master’s degree in plant pathology from The Pennsylvania State University in 1975.

On July 17, 1976, she married fellow Kent State alum, James R. Ries, and together they created a home in Warren, Ohio that was always full of laughter, good music, and warmth.

Deborah dedicated her career to nurturing a love of science and nature in others. After university, she taught in the horticulture program at Warren Western Reserve High School. She left the workforce to raise her children for 12 years, then returned to the workforce to teach chemistry at Liberty High School for more than 20 years.

Deborah was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Warren, Ohio, where she served as Deacon for many years. She was also active with the volunteer service organization, Stop One Place Help is Available (SOPHIA).

In addition to teaching and serving the community, Deborah loved gardening, riding bikes, playing the piano, hiking at Mill Creek Park, and camping, but most importantly, spending time with her family – especially her grandchildren.

Deborah is survived by her husband, James R. Ries of Warren; her son, Matthew M. Ries married to Gina M. Ries of Niles, Ohio; her daughter, Sarah M. Ries Palchak married to Daniel R. Palchak of Lexington, Mass.; her four grandchildren, Aria T. Ries, Anthony V. Ries, Ethan M. Palchak, and Aubrey M. Palchak; her sister-in-law, Joan Ries, of Niles, Ohio; many cousins, nieces, and nephews; and Deborah’s beloved dog, Lady. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Family and friends are invited to a memorial service to celebrate Deborah’s life on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at the First Presbyterian Church of Warren, Ohio (256 Mahoning Ave. NW in Warren, Ohio). Doors will open for visitation starting at 10:00 am, with the service at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Mill Creek Park’s restoration efforts at https://lovemillcreek.org/tree-trust-form, or to the First Presbyterian Church’s Deacons fund to help meet the practical needs of the congregation and the greater community at Donation or by mailing a donation for the Deacon fund to 256 Mahoning Ave. NW, Warren, OH 44483. The family is in the care of Lane Funeral Home, Roberts-Clark Chapel with online condolences being made at www.lanefuneralhomes.com.